Black Barn Pickleball Expansion Ohio: A new indoor pickleball facility in Riverside, Ohio, could soon become one of the largest in the state. Black Barn Pickleball is preparing to open a 24,000-square-foot center at 4740 Linden Avenue, with plans for a much larger expansion by spring 2026 that could reshape the local pickleball scene.
Facility Opens with Eight Courts
Black Barn Pickleball, founded by Mike Bettencourt and his team, chose to build an indoor facility instead of outdoor courts to support year-round play.
“We decided at the end of the day, while it would be nice to have, it’s better to have all indoor because then you can use them year-round,”(Mike Bettencourt).
The current facility sits on 13 acres of land that was once Smiley’s Golf and Baseball Center. The building features eight fenced-in pickleball courts, 32-foot ceilings, indirect lighting, and large fans. Nearby seating and tables are being added, and the space includes a pro shop, paddle rentals, restrooms, and a conference room.
Expansion Plans Already Underway
A second phase is already in the works. Bettencourt shared that a new 50,000-square-foot building will be built to house 14 to 18 more courts, along with a bar area and another pro shop. He hopes it will open in spring 2026.
“The higher the skill level, the more room space you need, for bigger serves, bigger returns, around-the-post shots and fun stuff like that,” (Mike Bettencourt).
The second building will include championship-style courts and spaces designed for players of all levels.
Aiming to Be Among the Largest in the U.S.
When completed, Black Barn Pickleball may surpass The Pickle Lodge in West Chester, Ohio, which has 17 indoor courts and several outdoor ones.
“We do think there is demand in Dayton for that many courts,” (Mike Bettencourt).
The team is also exploring future developments on the rest of the site, including restaurants and other uses.
Pickleball Boom Continues Across the Region
In the Miami Valley area, most indoor pickleball is played on repurposed tennis courts. But more dedicated pickleball centers are on the way.
Pickleball Kingdom is planning to open a 13-court indoor facility in Centerville, while PickleRage has announced a center with nine indoor and two outdoor courts in Washington Township.
At Black Barn Pickleball players can choose between a membership model—$99 or $59—or pay $10 per hour for walk-in access.
News in Brief: Black Barn Pickleball Expansion Ohio
Black Barn Pickleball is opening a new indoor facility in Riverside, Ohio, with eight courts and plans for a much larger expansion. The second phase aims to include up to 18 courts by 2026. The center offers memberships or hourly play, bringing more year-round pickleball opportunities to the region.
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